Food & Culture

Jazz up Your Next Video Call With These Seattle-Themed Backgrounds

From Husky pride to colorful illustrations, hide your laundry pile in style

By Sam Steele April 13, 2020

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Seattleites are finding creative ways to offset the monotony of isolation. Some have taken to slightly lengthening each of their daily tasks—adding ten minutes to showers, trading rushed bowls of cereal for elaborate breakfasts—while many of those working from home are embracing video conferencing shenanigans like Rickrolls and special appearances from pets. Another option for adding a little levity to those virtual meetings: customizable video call backgrounds. Here are our picks for free, Seattle-themed Zoom backgrounds to help make your next meeting a little more fun for everyone involved.

Show Some School Pride

Whether a current student or a nostalgic alum, the University of Washington and Seattle University have got you covered with high-quality images of their campuses, gorgeous views and one adorable canine mascot.

Upgrade Your Living Room

Local illustrator Pam Wishbow has created a series of eight colorful backgrounds showcasing mid-century furniture, plants and other cozy home decor elements. Download and use for free, but tip the artist if you’re able.

Enjoy the View

Columbia Center is closed, but you can enjoy breathtaking city views from Seattle’s tallest building without leaving the comfort of your home, thanks to Sky View Observatory’s virtual backgrounds.

Break Out the Jersey

Soccer season is postponed, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in the competitive spirit. The Sounders FC has created backgrounds with images of the stadium, players, and fans to help you show your coworkers where your allegiances lie.

Celebrate Seattle’s Charm

Visit Seattle has shared backgrounds based on Seattle’s most famous landmarks, including the Fremont Troll, Pike Place Market and SODO’s Ken Griffey Jr. mural.

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